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Cybersecurity funding for SMEs
The number of cybercrime cases rose to 46,179 reports across Austria in 2021. SMEs have been able to apply for funding since April 1, 2022.
Cybersecurity funding for SMEs
Cyber attacks are not only increasing at a frightening rate, they are also becoming increasingly diverse and complex. In times of digital change, there is practically no company that is not confronted with the risk of cyber attacks. The most common attacks take place in the form of stolen access data, phishing, malware, ransomware and the exploitation of known and unknown vulnerabilities in systems. At the same time, more and more digital gateways are being offered to hackers due to increased work from home and the more frequent use of cloud services.
In addition, due to the war in Ukraine, there is currently a very high general threat level in cyberspace. There is currently no specific high risk for Austria - but companies should use the time now to strengthen their cyber resilience, because the number of cybercrime cases in Austria has risen by a full third in the last year. In this regard, small and medium-sized businesses in particular are currently facing major challenges. “In the best case scenario, every entrepreneur has a trusted IT service provider that they consult for cybersecurity,” says Martin Heimhilcher, chairman of the information and consulting division of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce.
It is all the better that small and medium-sized businesses can apply for funding from April 1st to support them with digitalization - especially in the area of cybersecurity. The funding amount is up to 40 percent for projects worth 2,000 to 50,000 euros. “For example, services from external providers in the areas of IT and cybersecurity are also supported,” says Heimhilcher. The funding applications are processed by the “Austria Wirtschaftsservice”. A worthwhile investment because, according to experts, the best insurance against a cyber attack is still prevention. But that's not all: training staff can also provide long-term protection against digital attacks, as Heimlicher explains: "Creating fraud awareness among employees in your own company is also crucial."